Washing machines come in two forms - top loaders, which are common in the United States and Australia, and in front-loading form, heavily used by the Europeans.
If you are looking to get a new washing machine, get a front loader. They are miles away from top loaders in terms of energy and water saving capabilities. However, if you're still indecisive, maybe this list of common misconceptions about front loaders can help you switch.
FRONT LOADER MISCONCEPTIONS
Front loaders take longer to wash.
Yes. In general washing programmes like cotton, these machines can take up to one hour to finish the entire cycle. However, in most German models, they have an Express option, enabling washing times as fast as 15 minutes which, in fact, no top-loaders can do. This express option actually wash pretty well. Making sure the load is light and using detergents optimised for short wash, the results can be outstanding indeed.
Once you press start, there's no opening the door.
Nothing is more annoying than starting your machine before finding out about one forgotten thing that needs to be washed. Although some basic and older models do not allow you to open the door, on mid-range to higher end models, there is about a 5 to 10 minute grace period on which the program can be paused and the door to be opened, more than enough time for dirty stray items to be picked up.
You must bend down to load and unload the machine.
Older readers rejoice. Most front loaders are stackable. This means it is possible to stack the machine on top of another machine or on a cabinet, removing the need to bend down.
Front loaders are expensive.
Unless you want a top-notch Miele, basic models are pretty affordable. Even basic top loader can cost up to $600, but the most basic Bosch 6.5 kg front loader can cost as low as $550.
And now for the list - hopefully this will show you the immense benefits of a front loader.
WHY GET A FRONT LOADER, NOT A TOP LOADER
Immense savings on electricity and water bills.
This is probably the biggest advantage a front loader plays against top loaders. In a front loader, clothes do not to be continuously soaked in water, since the drum rotates parallel to the ground. This means front loaders use much less water than top loaders. Also, since all this increases motor efficiency, reducing electricity demand.
These machines are gentler to your clothes.
Instead of your clothes being stretched and twisted by an agitator, front loaders simply tumble your clothes, reducing fabric stress significantly.
Much, much higher spin speeds.
Some machines can spin up to 1600 RPM. When your clothes come out, they are almost dry! This is important if you use a dryer because it reduces both dryer stress and fabric stress in the dryer.
Greater range in temperature control.
Front loaders can offer temperatures from Cold to 90 degrees (usually the norm is 60 degrees, up to 90 degrees in stains programs) Celsius in 10 degree increments instead of the vague front-loader cold, warm, hot.
These machines are smart.
High end Miele machines can weigh your laundry and suggest the amount of detergent you use.
Other advantages:
- Timer delay start
- Quieter operations
- Generally better engineered
Do you have a preference on top or front loaders? Write on the comments!
